Explore every episode of the podcast On The Hard Days
Dive into the complete episode list for On The Hard Days. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
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BONUS: Ep. 214 All Things 'Community' With The Ladies of "Moms Talk Autism"!
06 Jan 2026
01:03:02
Hi guys! I'm interrupting this hiatus with an exciting bonus episode, when I was recently featured on the "Moms Talk Autism" podcast. Please give it a listen!
Happy New Year! We’ve got a special bonus episode to kick off 2026. This is the year to build your support system and create a strong community around you and your family. Let’s go!
Mothers Together is a first-of-its-kind global community supporting moms of neurodivergent kids. Their mission is to improve the mental health of moms by fostering deep connections and true friendships in a judgment-free space. Megan Champion, creator of Mothers Together, joins us to talk about the importance of friendship and to answer our questions about how this community might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
Open House enrollment happens quarterly, with the first opportunity of the year on January 7th. This free, virtual event is a chance to meet moms in the community, ask questions, and see what Mothers Together is all about. We hope to see you there!
Ep. 213 Mom Jen on Becoming Empowered to Learn How to Advocate For Her Gifted Child - How She Fought For Services and Won (the Second Time)
03 Jun 2025
00:49:10
"It's what we have to do. This is the fight, right now." Mom Jen tells the story of learning how to advocate for her gifted child - it's a powerful, super relatable conversation. If you've ever had to fight for services for your kid, this episode is for you!
In this episode, we talk about:
Life with her child: Gifted, with ASD, ADHD, and SPD
Being denied an IEP because her child was "smart" (after the school recommended he get tested!)
The mental health ripple effect of being denied services - feeling like a failure
How finding her people in Mothers Together helped her learn how to advocate for her kid
Recognizing that showing anger and frustration at meetings helped her get the IEP eventually
The importance of support for moms, and how it leads to empowerment
"Wow, listening to this was so validating!" <--- Sound like you? Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more moms - just like you - who need the support and validation to get through the hardships of parenting ND kids.
Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with 5 stars, and select "Write a review". And be sure to follow the show so you're notified whenever I publish an episode. Follow Now!
Mothers Together *Open House*
...is coming up on JULY 16th! Open House is primarily a validation-based event, where you and I can connect and chat, and I'll support you, along with my Host Mom "tour guides", as we introduce you to the warm and welcoming Mothers Together community.
Open House is FREE, VIRTUAL, and NOT time zone-dependent, so you can join from anywhere around the world!
Ep. 204 Mom Amanda on Being an "Action Taker" While Pursuing *All The Things* to Help Her Family Thrive
11 Mar 2025
00:47:17
"We kind of go along each day, living in the moment of where our kids are at that time, and how we can support them in that." Don't miss this one with mom guest, Amanda! You'll feel inspired and validated by her unique journey!
In this episode, we talk about:
Life with *8* adopted, neurodivergent children after fostering dozens of kids
How her own ADHD has led to MANY different passions and hobbies
What it was like in burnout as a foster parent
Homeschooling, homesteading, and their daily life
How she meets the needs of her PDA child among the needs of other kids
Finding her joy in friendship and her version of "self care" - publishing a book about social workers and foster families
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
"Wow, listening to this was so validating!" <--- Sound like you? Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more moms - just like you - who need the support and validation to get through the hardships of parenting ND kids.
Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with 5 stars, and select "Write a review". And be sure to follow the show so you're notified whenever I publish an episode. Follow Now!
Mothers Together *Open House*
...is coming up on April 2nd! Open House is primarily a validation-based event, where you and I can connect and chat, and I'll support you, along with my Host Mom "tour guides", as we introduce you to the warm and welcoming Mothers Together community.
Open House is FREE, VIRTUAL, and NOT time zone-dependent, so you can join from anywhere around the world!
Ep.114 Mom Andrea Brophy on Being Solution-Oriented & Open-Minded When Trying to Help Our Neurodivergent Kids
24 Oct 2022
01:00:57
About This Episode: Mom Andrea is such a chill, relaxed mom raising a neurodivergent kid - something I am definitely not! So it was fascinating to hear her approach on trying different therapies, diets, and constantly being ready for the "next thing" that could possibly help her child. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-When your kid is resistant to receiving help and trying strategies -Can ND kids feel safe when they're dysregulated? -Therapies tried: Safe & Sound Protocol, CBT, Functional Medicine, and more -Where's the line between constant researching and accepting your kids as they are?
Please shower Andrea with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 11/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep.113 My Turn: "How Do I Know If Medication Is Right For My Neurodivergent Kid?"
20 Oct 2022
00:29:49
About The Episode: Welcome to my Thursday weekly series: My Turn! I receive wonderful questions every day from moms of neurodivergent kids, and I thought it would be helpful to compile a list of these questions and chip away at them, week after week, giving you my take on them based on my personal experiences.
Today's Question: "How Do I Know If Medication is Right For My Neurodivergent Kid?"
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 11/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep.112 (Part 2) Mom Debbie Myers on Shedding the Societal Burden of "Normality" For a Neurodivergent Family and Truly Being Yourself
17 Oct 2022
01:01:26
About This Episode: This is Part 2 with Mom Debbie , who continues to be so brave in sharing her story of raising neurodivergent children with really tough behaviors in the face of a tough marriage. Here's last week's Part 1! In this episode, Debbie has amazing insights to share that inspired me - listen all the way to the end! Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Being gaslit (but not on purpose) -Separating from your kid when they have separation anxiety -Getting your kids to view you in a different, more positive light -Teaching your kids that their identity isn't their diagnosis -Learning to embrace a diagnosis and allowing yourself to be that person
Please shower Debbie with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 11/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep.111 My Turn: "How Do I Advocate For My Neurodivergent Child At School?"
13 Oct 2022
00:19:38
About The Episode: Welcome to my new weekly series: My Turn! I receive wonderful questions every day from moms of neurodivergent kids, and I thought it would be helpful to compile a list of these questions and chip away at them, week after week, giving you my take on them based on my personal experiences.
Today's Question: "How Do I Advocate For My Neurodivergent Child At School?"
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 11/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 110 (Part 1) Mom Debbie Myers on Being Blamed For Your Neurodivergent Children's Struggles & Leaving an Abusive Marriage
10 Oct 2022
00:44:46
*Trigger Warning* - Verbal/emotional abuse and suicidal ideations
About This Episode: Mom Debbie is opening up about some really, really tough topics, and I'm so thankful for her bravery - I know there are moms listening who need to hear her story. This is Part 1, and here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-When significant other isn't on board with testing, diagnosis, etc. -Severe sleep deprivation -Fighting the "traditional" roles for moms vs. dads -Using a "script" for how the parenting journey should go -When child services is called
Please shower Debbie with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 10/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep.109 My Turn: Walking On Eggshells & Dodging Meltdowns At The Store - Why Does It Have To Be So Hard?
06 Oct 2022
01:09:12
About The Episode: Welcome to my Thursday solo episode! Normally, these second episodes are short and are based around YOUR questions. This time, I wanted to share a personal story about a recent trip to the story, a toy disappointment, and walking on eggshells, waiting for that meltdown! Also in this episode, I discuss the differences between my two programs, Mothers Together and Mothers Evolve!
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 10/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 108 Mom Katrina Bandeli On The Guilt of Having a Temper With a Neurodivergent Kid - Or Is It Just Overwhelm?
03 Oct 2022
00:39:10
About This Episode: Mom Katrina is sharing so vulnerably what mom guilt feels like when you're raising a neurodivergent kid. She put so much blame on herself for a lot of her child's struggles (and for losing her temper), and we unpacked that feeling in this conversation because it's just so relatable. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Relief from getting a diagnosis -Guilt from being a "yelling" mom -Temper vs. Overwhelm -Worrying about your neurodivergent child's future -Researching in depth to meet your child's needs -Why do people expect children to grow out of behaviors? -Hesitation to share diagnosis with others for fear of judgement
Please shower Katrina with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 10/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 107 My Turn: "Why Does My Gifted Kid Constantly Seek My Attention, and What Can I Do About It?"
29 Sep 2022
00:18:53
About The Episode: Welcome to my new weekly series: My Turn! I receive wonderful questions every day from moms of neurodivergent kids, and I thought it would be helpful to compile a list of these questions and chip away at them, week after week, giving you my take on them based on my personal experiences.
Today's Question: "Why does my gifted kid constantly seek my attention, and what can I do about it?"
MORE: -Last call to join us for the Mothers Evolve pilot! Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 10/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 106 (Replay) Mom Avril Brown on Doing the Work of Internal Healing in Order to Love Our Neurodivergent Kids Unconditionally
26 Sep 2022
00:58:07
*This replay episode is worth hearing once, twice, eight times - it's THAT GOOD. Avril gets me in a way that I had never really experienced before. You will feel SO seen while you're listening! And while I'm talking about Avril, I have to mention: She's one of our amazing mentors for the Mothers Evolve program. Our pilot launch starts next week - so if you're interested in meeting Avril and doing some internal work of your own, this is your last chance to sign up!
About This Episode: Okay, my friends - if you've never listened to an episode of On The Hard Days before - THIS episode is a great place to start. I have never personally felt more seen and heard than after chatting with the amazing Avril Brown. She gets it. Moment after moment of our conversation is filled with insight into accepting ourselves in order to truly accept our kids. So many lightbulb moments. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Being triggered by your child's intense emotions -Guilt from lack of joy in motherhood -Unconditional love - even during challenging times -Prioritizing yourself as a mother -Motherhood perfectionism and rage -Practice the pause
You can find Avril on FB and IG under her name, Avril Brown.
Please shower Avril with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Send me a message on IG or FB and I'll tell you how to sign up! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 105 My Turn: "How Do I Handle My Neurodivergent Child's Behavior Struggles in School?"
22 Sep 2022
00:26:41
About The Episode: Welcome to my new weekly series: My Turn! I receive wonderful questions every day from moms of neurodivergent kids, and I thought it would be helpful to compile a list of these questions and chip away at them, week after week, giving you my take on them based on my personal experiences.
Today's Question: "How do I handle my neurodivergent child's behavior struggles in school?"
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 10/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 203 Mom Emily on Managing *Caregiver Burnout* When There's No End in Sight
04 Mar 2025
00:59:15
"It always goes back to - NOBODY gets it." We're BACK!! And we're kicking it off with mom guest, Emily. I'm telling you right now - you will ABSOLUTELY resonate with her story!
In this episode, we talk about:
The frustration of being your child's co-regulator 24/7
When being a "stay at home mom" means you can't take your kids out due to your child's struggles - so you're always at home.
The way motherhood is romanticized on social media
The sadness of losing friendships with other adults over time because they have NT kids.
How sharing your nervous system with your child's means you have nothing left at the end of the day.
How finding her village has helped her reclaim her identity
How parenting a demand avoidant kid requires a whole different approach
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
"Wow, listening to this was so validating!" <--- Sound like you? Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more moms - just like you - who need the support and validation to get through the hardships of parenting ND kids.
Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with 5 stars, and select "Write a review". And be sure to follow the show so you're notified whenever I publish an episode. Follow Now!
Mothers Together *Open House*
...is coming up on April 2nd! Open House is primarily a validation-based event, where you and I can connect and chat, and I'll support you, along with my Host Mom "tour guides", as we introduce you to the warm and welcoming Mothers Together community.
Open House is FREE, VIRTUAL, and NOT time zone-dependent, so you can join from anywhere around the world!
Ep. 104 Mom Kelly Winkler on How Yoga & Mindfulness Can Provide Relief For Neurodivergent Kids (and Their Moms!) With Anxiety, OCD, and Panic Disorder
19 Sep 2022
01:11:57
About This Episode: Mom Kelly is an inspiration. Her neurodivergent child with anxiety, OCD, and panic disorder has REALLY struggled, especially in her teen years. And because of that, Kelly has struggled too. But besides putting out daily fires, she decided to take matters of healing into her own hands - and healed herself in ways she never thought possible. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Anxiety increases with hormonal changes in teens -Admitting your child to the hospital with intrusive thoughts -How Moms of ND kids struggle with PTSD and daily anxiety -Yoga, mindfulness, and meditation - how it can help -Breathwork is for people whose anxiety lives in their chests -Taking the healing process into your own hands
Please shower Kelly with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story! Her podcast is called "Mindful Conversations With Kay" and you can find her on IG @mindfulmomentsforfamilies.
MORE: -Last call for moms interested in piloting my new program, Mothers Evolve! Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 10/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 103 My Turn: That Time I Screamed At My Neurodivergent Kid
15 Sep 2022
00:42:57
About The Episode: Welcome to my Thursday solo episode! Normally, these second episodes are short and are based around YOUR questions. This time, I wanted to share a personal story about one of the (many) times I lost it on my child, and how that affected my mental health for years to come. Also in this episode, I break down the parts of my new program Mothers Evolve!
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 10/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 102 Mom Krista Ehlers on Struggling With "Parental PTSD" & Extreme Trauma For the Whole Family
12 Sep 2022
01:14:51
About This Episode: Krista is so brave, and I'm so thankful for her. She had no hesitation in diving into some really tough and vulnerable topics around raising neurodivergent kids, including aggression and violence, adoption, trauma, and CPS. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-How symptoms of trauma mirror ADHD -What is the trauma that adopted children struggle with? -How does ADHD look different in boys than girls? -When specialty diets don't help (but they were supposed to be the cure-all!) -ODD - "recreational arguer" -When ADHD symptoms "fit" with the "typical boy" stereotype, but not with girls -Severe behaviors and CPS
Please shower Krista with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story! You can find Krista on IG @krista.ehlers.
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 10/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 101 My Turn: "Should I Bother Seeking a Diagnosis For My Child? Would This Help Our Family?"
08 Sep 2022
00:19:24
About The Episode: Welcome to my new weekly series: Ask Megan! I receive wonderful questions every day from moms of neurodivergent kids, and I thought it would be helpful to compile a list of these questions and chip away at them, week after week, giving you my take on them based on my personal experiences.
Today's Question: "Should I bother seeking a diagnosis for my child? Would this help our whole family?"
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 9/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 100 Reflecting On The Journey of This Podcast, Plus Part 2 with Kim Heilig!
05 Sep 2022
00:50:28
About This Episode: Is this real life?! I'm spending a few minutes taking a look back as we cross over the 100 episodes line. Then, I'm on to Part 2 with my friend, Kim Heilig.
Kim Heilig is BACK! She's one of my all-time favorite people and I'm so excited to share with you what she has to say in this Part 1 of 2 episodes. First of all, if you never caught her first episode WAY back in June '21 (#28!), definitely listen to it RIGHT HERE. Second of all, I'm THRILLED to share that Kim is one of the mentors in my new upcoming program, Mothers Evolve. If you like her style and can resonate with her words, you'll love getting to know her and work with her in Mothers Evolve. You can sign up for the October Pilot of Mothers Evolve RIGHT HERE. Oh, and speaking of M.E. - the beginning of this episode introduces you to all 5 mentors in my program - be sure to listen to their powerful and positive messaging. I'm SO lucky to have them in my life! Now, back to the episode.
Please shower Kim with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 9/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 99 (Part 1) Mom Kimberly Heilig on "Wading Into the Hard": When There Are No Obvious, Perfect Choices For a Neurodivergent Child's Well-Being
29 Aug 2022
00:46:36
About This Episode: Kim Heilig is BACK! She's one of my all-time favorite people and I'm so excited to share with you what she has to say in this Part 1 of 2 episodes. First of all, if you never caught her first episode WAY back in June '21 (#28!), definitely listen to it RIGHT HERE. Second of all, I'm THRILLED to share that Kim is one of the mentors in my new upcoming program, Mothers Evolve. If you like her style and can resonate with her words, you'll love getting to know her and work with her in Mothers Evolve. You can sign up for the October Pilot of Mothers Evolve RIGHT HERE. Oh, and speaking of M.E. - the beginning of this episode introduces you to all 5 mentors in my program - be sure to listen to their powerful and positive messaging. I'm SO lucky to have them in my life! Now, back to the episode. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Becoming a homeschooling family - unwillingly -Giving up your dream job to support your child -Learning to trust the process -Healing: It takes a LONG TIME! -What education is like for gifted children with learning disabilities -What a strengths' based approaching to schooling could look like -How confidence leads to achievement - NOT the other way around. -How to establish a positive homeschool environment
Please shower Kim with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 9/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 98 Mom Jennifer Rhein on Thinking Outside the Box to Combat Behavior Struggles With Highly Anxious, Gifted Kids
22 Aug 2022
01:08:53
About This Episode: I had the best talk with Jennifer Rhein. The amount of similarities in our children we discovered in this episode were insane! Gifted kids are often anxious kids, and that can lead to major challenges. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Are we trying to work together or trying to control? -Behavior struggles with gifted, anxious kids -When reward systems don't work -High anxiety means kids want control -How to name the anxiety monster
Please shower Jennifer with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 9/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 97 (Part 2) Mom Tahira Benevelli on Doing the Internal Work to Discover Our Own Missing Needs *Before* Meeting the Needs of Our Neurodivergent Kids
15 Aug 2022
00:33:21
About This Episode: This episode is the *perfect" one to plug your headphones into on your next drive to work or dog walk - short but packs a PUNCH. Tahira and I start asking questions about WHY society tries to get our neurodivergent kids to conform. Plus, we take a deep dive into the concept of putting our oxygen masks on first. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-The things you want for your kids, you have to give to yourself first -How to let go of battles -When you haven't checked in with yourself in YEARS -Why do doctors and therapists try to "fix" our kids? -Who even built society's "box", anyway? -Self-care is INTERNAL work! -Meeting your kids' needs at the risk of your own
Did you miss Part 1? Make sure you listen to that too, to get more on Tahira's story!
Please shower Tahira with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 9/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 96 (Part 1) Mom Tahira Benevelli on Shedding Generational Patterns by Being "Emotionally Messy" With Our Neurodivergent Kids
08 Aug 2022
00:51:46
About This Episode: Sometimes, a conversation is just so juicy that it needs two parts! This one, with mom Tahira, is one of them. I think you're going to absolutely LOVE this episode. Tahira is a former "authoritarian" parent, relearning who she is, what she values, and what works best for her kids' brains. I can completely relate to her story and I think you will, too. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Giving tools to our kids is really about needing those tools for ourselves -Growing with our children -Balancing the needs of multiple ND kids -Going back to old patterns when we're stressed -How understanding your kid's brain changes everything -Why are some kids compliant and others aren't? -When the way you were raised doesn't work for ND kids
Please shower Elle with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 8/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 95 Mom Elle Barrett on Helping Your Neurodivergent Child Stay True to Themselves - Which Means When To Mask (And When Not To)
01 Aug 2022
00:52:13
About This Episode: What an awesome chat with mom Elle! We talked a LOT about how being autistic has made a massive impact on how she raises her autistic daughter. She shared a ton of insight as she reflected back onto her childhood and focused on what it felt like trying to fit in all the time. It's a wonderful conversation that you will definitely grab takeaways from. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Seeing the same qualities in your child as you see in yourself -Just because someone is neurodivergent doesn't mean they fully understand neurodivergence -The negative feeling of being "other" -Rethinking your childhood after your child's diagnosis -Teaching your child to know how to act as a neurotypical person...but on their terms -Importance of understanding Sensory Processing Disorder -The integration of body systems -Why is neurodivergence considered a disability? -How SPD permeates everyday life
Please shower Elle with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 8/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep.202 Mom Chantelle Stieghan on Facing Motherhood Struggles With Humor & Rolling With the (Literal) Punches
04 Dec 2023
00:57:13
About This Episode: It's Mama Monday! This week, I'm talking with mom Chantelle. I loved this whole conversation and I know you will too! Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-The lack of support when living in a foreign country -When doctors have never heard of the struggles your child is facing -Eating disorders as part of being neurodivergent -How ADHD can look so different in different kids -How emotional it is to feel alone in your struggles -Trying to advocate for your child in a different language than your native tongue -How exciting it is to find a resource that helps -Chantelle's children's books that she made up for her children - on sale on Amazon! Find them here: https://www.amazon.com/Books-Chantelle-Stieghan/
Please shower Chantelle with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story.
** HUGE NEWS!! Our next Mothers Together "Open House" is coming up at the end of the year! At Open House, you'll walk away with actual connections to real moms just like you AND the validation you deserve but often don't receive. I'm thrilled to be able to bring you a taste of how inclusive, safe, and judgment-free the Mothers Together community is. If you are ready to meet other moms like you, please join us for Open House! Here's the link to sign up: mothers-together.com/openhouse. See you there!
I ALWAYS welcome YOUR thoughts! Feel free to DM me on IG (@on.the.hard.days) or email me: megan@mothers-together.com. This podcast is what it is because of YOU.
And speaking of the podcast, YOU all recently got my show to over 230K downloads. Thank you!
The best way to keep this podcast download streak is to: 1) Subscribe to the podcast - your device will automatically download new episodes! 2) Share the show with others - think therapists, pediatricians, and teachers! 3) Leave a rating/review for the show - the Apple algorithm will push the show out to more moms who need the support and validation!
THANK YOU, so very much, for your continued support!
Ep. 94 (Replay) Mom Nancy Golumbia on Trusting the Developmental Process of Your Neurodivergent Child and Accepting Them for Who They Are
25 Jul 2022
01:14:40
About This Episode: My friends - this episode is one of my all-time favorites, and since every mama guest is so wonderful, that's really saying something! Whether you've heard Nancy before or not - take the time this week to hear her story again.
OH my goodness, the episode is AMAZING. There is NO way, after listening to it, that you won't feel something in in your gut about the message Nancy is spreading. She drops gold again and again with detailed talk about acceptance and letting your child just "be". Whether you listen all in one sitting or break the episode up over the week - make sure you listen to the WHOLE THING. Here are some things we discuss:
-Setting expectations that are actually reachable and that will boost your child's self-esteem and happiness -Parenting from the gut. You know your kid best! -Focusing on our kids' strengths rather than their lagging skills -Completely accepting your child for who they are
Please shower Nancy with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 8/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 93 Mom Maveric Van Brackle on Fostering Independence for Neurodivergent Kids Through Constant Communication and Trusting Your Gut Instincts
18 Jul 2022
00:42:33
About This Episode: Maveric Van Brackle inspired me so many times in our short chat, and what I love most about her is her willingness to do what she thinks is right for her child (well, he's a teenager now!) without worry of judgement or questioning herself. For her, it's all about reading her kid. Lots of takeaways in this episode! Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Pushing through the meltdowns about daily tasks and hygiene -Staying honest with your child and keeping your word -Breaking generational patterns of parenting -Putting your blinders on to listen to your gut instincts -The transition to adulthood
Please shower Maveric with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. New groups start 8/1!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 92 (Part 2) Mom Megan Pizarro on How Loving and Accepting Yourself Affects How You Parent Your Neurodivergent Child
11 Jul 2022
00:46:38
About This Episode: After last week's Part 1, you guys raved about how relatable Megan Pizarro is. (If you haven't yet listened to Part 1, go and do that right now, because it'll really help to get a feel for the kind, gentle, dedicated mom that Megan is.) Now, in Part 2, Megan talks about how much she's learned in the past few years about loving and accepting HERSELF, and how that has positively impacted how she views and parents her neurodivergent child. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-The concept of self-forgiveness -Internalizing blame when comparing your life to that of other moms -The stigma of therapy -The challenges of hearing our children speak negatively about themselves -PTSD and how it applies to moms raising neurodivergent kids -The power of love and acceptance
Please shower Megan with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -I'm looking for moms to pilot my new program, Mothers Evolve. Sign up to save your spot at ontheharddays.com/pilot
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. It's not too late to join us in July!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 91 (Part 1) Mom Megan Pizarro on the Overwhelm and Shame of Being a People Pleaser & Perfectionist Raising a Child With Oppositional Defiant Disorder
04 Jul 2022
00:40:02
About This Episode: *Trigger Warning* This episode touches upon multiple losses, including that of a baby. This content is in the first 10 minutes of the actual conversation with Megan.
My friends, this is one heck of an episode - and it's only Part 1! Megan is a wonderful, amazing mom. I decided to split our chat into two episodes as Part 1 is focused on Megan's story and her family, and Part 2 will be focused on Megan's learnings and tremendous growth she went through and how she's inspiring other moms to do the same.
In this Part 1, Megan doesn't hesitate to be very vulnerable and forthcoming in her struggle to parent her neurodivergent child. I could really relate to so much that she said, and I have a feeling you will be able to as well. Here are just a few of the topics we discussed:
-When there's trauma in the first year of the baby's life -Does needing an evaluation mean you've failed as a parent? -The shame that comes with raising a child with a mood disorder -The sheer magnitude of how very hard this motherhood journey is -Being a recovering people pleaser and "good girl"
Please shower Megan with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. It's not too late to join us in July!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 90 Mom Lindsey Furr on Fighting for Your Neurodivergent Child with Medical & Educational Traumas
27 Jun 2022
00:48:01
About This Episode: Mom Lindsey is a fighter, and so is her son. She's been advocating fiercely for him since the day he was born, as he suffered from medical trauma and then eventually educational trauma. She's in full Mama Bear mode (as I know you all can relate to) and I'm grateful she came on the show to share her story. Here are just a few of the topics we discussed:
-What medical trauma looks like for an infant: Hirschsprung's Disease, surgeries, and long-term stays in the hospital -The struggle to get a 1 on 1 aide in the classroom -Lack of communication with school on behaviors -The ongoing fight for inclusion -Losing adult friendships as you take care of your child
Lindsey welcomes you to reach out to her and say hello! She's on FB and her email is lindseyfurr8180@gmail.com. Please shower Lindsey with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next group starts on July 1st!
-For bonus episodes, monthly printables, Zoom hangouts, on-air shouts, and more (including the change to submit your family picture as the podcast cover art!) head to patreon.com/ontheharddays and sponsor the show.
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 89 Mom Kristen Kollgaard on Accepting Dual Truths: When You Really Don't Like Motherhood, But You Really Love Your Kid
20 Jun 2022
00:42:42
About This Episode: I'm so appreciative of the REALNESS Mom Kristen brings to this conversation. She tells it like it is, while simultaneously reminding us that it's okay to not enjoy this ride of parenting a neurodivergent child, and that things are REALLY, really hard. Here are just a few of the topics we discussed:
-Am I imagining/exaggerating symptoms? -When a diagnosis is validating -Why do other people question your child's diagnosis? -"If this feels harder than it should be, it probably is." -Guilt for admitting that you don't enjoy this. -Early signs of Autism
Kristen welcomes you to reach out to her and say hello! She's on IG @kkollgaard and email is: kristenkollgaard@gmail.com. Please shower Kristen with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -For bonus episodes, monthly printables, Zoom hangouts, on-air shouts, and more (including the change to submit your family picture as the podcast cover art!) head to patreon.com/ontheharddays and sponsor the show.
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next group starts on July 1st!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 88 Mom Marni Kammersell on How Homeschooling Allows Gifted Kids With Learning Disabilities to be Themselves
13 Jun 2022
01:01:24
About This Episode: Marni Kammersell is homeschooling her kids, and boy does she GET it. The way she thinks about gifted, learning disabled children completely resonated with me in our conversation, and I just know it will for you too. Here are just a few of the topics we discussed: -The "hyper-wiring" of gifted brains -Can 2E kids thrive in a traditional school setting? -Why IQ testing is a thing -Is a label necessary for your kids when you're homeschooling? -What it's like to be gifted with dysgraphia -Playing to our kids' strengths in education
Marni Kammersell is a doctoral student at the Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity in Education. However, her greatest teachers are her three twice-exceptional children. Together, they've been living a self-directed learning lifestyle since 2009. As a homeschooling and neurodiversity consultant, Marni loves sharing the latest research in neuroscience. She enjoys helping families transition from traditional educational models into homeschooling in a way that works for their unique learners. You can find her at https://nurturingneurodiversity.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/nurturingneurodiversitycolorado Please shower Marni with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -For bonus episodes, monthly printables, Zoom hangouts, on-air shouts, and more (including the change to submit your family picture as the podcast cover art!) head to patreon.com/ontheharddays and sponsor the show.
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next group starts on June 1st!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 87 (Part 2) Mom Erin Yeschin on Finding "Mama Bear" Strength in Our Parenting Fears and Reframing a "Stuck" Mentality
06 Jun 2022
01:19:16
About This Episode: It's Part 2 of my amazing chat with the one and only Erin Yeschin. And while Part 1 was so relatable and validating, Part 2 will lift you up and give you the gentle kick in the pants you need to feel empowered and motivated to keep going. Don't skip this one, my friends - there is such power in her words! Here are just a few of the topics we discussed:
-Reframing your relationship with your neurodivergent child -The gift of advocacy -How misunderstood neurodivergent people are -Why society expects neurodivergent kids to grow out of their behaviors and challenges -Reframing a "failure" mentality -Talking to your kids about tough societal issues
You can find Erin on IG @hippocampusclubhouse as well as on her podcast, Hippocampus Clubhouse, and her website: hippocampusclubhouse.com. Please shower Erin with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -For bonus episodes, monthly printables, Zoom hangouts, on-air shouts, and more (including the change to submit your family picture as the podcast cover art!) head to patreon.com/ontheharddays and sponsor the show.
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next group starts on June 1st!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 86 (Part 1) Mom Erin Yeschin on Staying Positive Despite a Rough Motherhood Journey From the Very Beginning
30 May 2022
01:02:52
About This Episode: Erin Yeschin's parenting story of raising her neurodivergent child was so good, we had a long enough chat for two episodes (or even more!) Erin is a ray of light, despite being knocked down again and again and again. From her own health problems to a rough pregnancy, to health issues for her little one, and then really challenging behaviors, hers is a story I bet you will be able to resonate with somewhere along the line. And here's my favorite thing about her - her willingness to be brave and vulnerable. Towards the beginning of our conversation, her child interrupted us and got upset. His reaction is all too familiar for so many of us, and Erin graciously allowed me to share that part in this episode. Here are just a few of the topics we discussed:
-How a challenging pregnancy affects the motherhood journey -When big emotions have to come out at some point, one way or another -The first signs of giftedness -Tantrums Vs. Meltdowns -The stress of a public meltdown -High functioning postpartum anxiety and what that looks like -Being a highly sensitive mom
You can find Erin on IG @hippocampusclubhouse - please check out what she's doing over there, it's amazing!! Please shower Erin with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -For bonus episodes, monthly printables, Zoom hangouts, on-air shouts, and more (including the change to submit your family picture as the podcast cover art!) head to patreon.com/ontheharddays and sponsor the show.
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next group starts on June 1st!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 85 Mom Allison Kenny on Letting Go of Motherhood Perfectionism (Especially With a Neurodivergent Kid) & Creating Your Own Image of Love
23 May 2022
00:55:47
About This Episode: Allison Kenny brought me HOME to myself and gave me the therapy session I didn't know I needed! Wow. You've got to take a listen to this amazing mom and life coach, who, in raising her own neurodivergent child, had to re-wire her brain for different outcomes in motherhood than the way she grew up. You'll want a notepad handy to jot down some really amazing, stick-with-you-for-days takeaways. Here are just a few of the topics we discussed:
-The false narrative of what raising kids in our society looks like -Moms' suffering mental health due to putting ourselves last -The foster-to-adopt system and how it created a false illusion of preparedness -"Survival wiring" - perfectionism and hustle -Reactive Attachment Disorder -"Shift Parenting" - What is it? -The trauma and PTSD that comes with the tough moments of motherhood
You can find Allison on IG @allisonkenny_coach and on FB @ Allison Kenny. Please shower Allison with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story!
MORE: -For bonus episodes, monthly printables, Zoom hangouts, on-air shouts, and more (including the change to submit your family picture as the podcast cover art!) head to patreon.com/ontheharddays and sponsor the show.
-Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next group starts on June 1st!
-Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep.201 Mom Felicia Watkins on Stopping the Cycles of Self-Gaslighting and Judging How She Parents Her Neurodivergent Kids
27 Nov 2023
00:32:27
About This Episode: It's Mama Monday! This week, I'm talking with mom Felicia. I loved this whole conversation and I know you will too! Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Raising multiple children with Autism -Learning how to stop self-gaslighting when looking at your child's struggles -The exhaustion she feels from trying to meet the needs of all of her kids -Rolling with the punches while establishing your household "norms" -How she's practicing self-love with less judgement
Please shower Felicia with love and support by SHARING this episode with a mom who needs to hear her story.
** HUGE NEWS!! Our next Mothers Together "Open House" is coming up at the end of the year! At Open House, you'll walk away with actual connections to real moms just like you AND the validation you deserve but often don't receive. I'm thrilled to be able to bring you a taste of how inclusive, safe, and judgment-free the Mothers Together community is. If you are ready to meet other moms like you, please join us for Open House! Here's the link to sign up: mothers-together.com/openhouse. See you there!
I ALWAYS welcome YOUR thoughts! Feel free to DM me on IG (@on.the.hard.days) or email me: megan@mothers-together.com. This podcast is what it is because of YOU.
And speaking of the podcast, YOU all recently got my show to over 230K downloads. Thank you!
The best way to keep this podcast download streak is to: 1) Subscribe to the podcast - your device will automatically download new episodes! 2) Share the show with others - think therapists, pediatricians, and teachers! 3) Leave a rating/review for the show - the Apple algorithm will push the show out to more moms who need the support and validation!
THANK YOU, so very much, for your continued support!
Ep. 84 (Replay) Lessons From a Frying Pan
16 May 2022
00:39:42
About This Episode: I'm throwing it WAY back to episode 5 to tell the story of the frying pan. Yes, the pan we cook eggs on. We so often are caught up in the intense emotions of our neurodivergent kids that sometimes the answer is staring us in the face! Take a listen to this personal story of mine and let me know if it resonates!
Please SHARE this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next group starts on June 1st! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 83 Mom Alicia DuBois on Learning How to Pick Your Battles and the Trial and Error of the Medication Process
09 May 2022
01:01:45
About This Episode: Alicia DuBois and I got talking about a lot of very relatable topics in this week's episode. I love her matter-of-fact nature in that, it is what it is, so let's just move on sort of attitude! Here's just some of the things we discuss:
-Working with your child to solve problems -Being the mom you used to judge -When strategies work one day and not the next -How to let some behaviors go -The ups and downs of trying new medications -Is it giving in, or is it being flexible?
Please shower Alicia with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next group starts on June 1st! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 82 Mom Tiphany Kane on Shifting the Dreams We Have For Our Neurodivergent Kids - But Dreaming Nonetheless
02 May 2022
00:56:13
About This Episode: Tiphany Kane is a friend and a wonderful mother. I loved how positively she spoke of parenting, while also describing so many really hard moments. Here's just some of the things we discuss:
-Shifting and Growing WITH Our Children -Letting go of parental expectations -Quieting the judgmental voices in our heads
More About Tiphany! Tiphany Kane, M. Ed. is known as “The Heck Yes! Coach”. She spent two decades in public education and specializes in professional development, training professional adults, and public speaking. She is also an entrepreneur and writer, who brings her passion for the art of the spoken word to people who need help finding their voice. Tiphany is passionate about coaching women to turn life's painful “no's” in life & business into empowered opportunities to find the “YES!”. Tiphany’s mission is to empower and educate women to elevate their voice and story through podcasting, writing, and other media. Tiphany is the co-founder of KaSa Media productions as well as the host of 2 podcasts; Radical Audacity and Mastering the Podcaster Mindset.
CONTACT tkane@tiphanykane.com www.tiphanykane.com IG, Twitter, LinedIn:tiphanykane FB:Tiphany Kane Coaching Pod: Radical Audacity in Love & Life Pod: Mastering the Podcaster Mindset
Please shower Tiphany with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next group starts on May 1st! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 81 (Replay) Mom Patricia Sung on Understanding ADHD in Neurodiverse Kids and Their Parents
25 Apr 2022
01:21:47
*This week, I'm bringing back the MOST downloaded interview-based episode I have since starting the show in January of 2021. If you've heard it once, it hasn't been enough! Keep a notepad handy!
About This Episode: Patricia Sung is just the person I needed to talk to. She has ADHD and understands its nuances to a fault. She has her own podcast, Motherhood in ADHD, and is a featured guest speaker in my support group community, Mothers Together. In this episode, she was able to answer so many of my questions. We could've talked for hours longer! Here's just some of the things we discuss:
-Postpartum anxiety and the tie to ADHD -The hyper vigilance in recognizing the same diagnosis in our kids as we have -How everyone's ADHD looks different -Building up your ADHD child -Supporting undiagnosed kids by looking for behavioral patterns -Tantrums vs. meltdowns -ADHD and setting parental boundaries
You can find Patricia at https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast Please shower Patricia with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next group starts on May 1st! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 80 Mom Erika Boudreau on Being a Pseudo-Mom (yet a Full Time Caretaker) to a Neurodivergent Child
18 Apr 2022
01:00:03
About This Episode: Mom Erika is a powerhouse, telling a story that honestly, I would have a hard time telling. After unexpectedly and suddenly becoming a foster parent to her niece, she now is an amazing advocate and caretaker for her. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Lack of control as a foster parent -Giving your whole self to someone else's child -Parenting a family member's child -Changing your family's culture to help your child fit in -When you didn't plan to foster -Neurodivergence or trauma?
Please shower Erika with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Head over to ontheharddays.com/motherstogether to sign up. Our next groups start on May 1st! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 79 Mom Amy Smith on Mentally Accepting Aggressive Treatment for Severe OCD in a Young Child
11 Apr 2022
01:03:23
About This Episode: Mom Amy is one of the strongest, most positive moms I know with one of the toughest stories I've ever heard. Her son suffers from severe, life-altering OCD. She had to accept help from multiple hospitals and the most aggressive treatment, despite her child being a young age. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-What is "just right" OCD? -What it's like to hospitalize your child -When inpatient hospital stays come with a waiting list -How ECT saved her son -Keeping a marriage intact during a rough time
Please shower Amy with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Send me a message on IG or FB and I'll tell you how to sign up! Our next groups start on April 1st! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 78 Mom Danielle Reiff on Balancing a Career and Motherhood, & Celebrating All Our Neurodivergent Kids Have to Offer
04 Apr 2022
01:08:53
About This Episode: Mom Danielle was such a wonderful, knowledgeable person to talk with. For one thing, she has the coolest job! But what happens when your career and identity don't mesh with the needs of your child? Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Supporting kids with PDA -Traveling and experiencing new places with neurodivergent kids -Lack of resources in other countries -The importance of stability and secure attachment with our kids -When neurodivergent behaviors (unsupported) turn into trauma
Please shower Danielle with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Send me a message on IG or FB and I'll tell you how to sign up! Our next groups start on April 1st! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 77 Mom Lorin Pahlua on Holding Space & Being a "Grief Keeper" for Neurodivergent Children With Trauma
28 Mar 2022
00:52:06
About This Episode: Mom Lorin's conversation left me speechless more than once. Her vulnerability in sharing her innermost worries about raising her neurodivergent, adopted children just completely blew me away. Chatting with her was such a gift - this episode is not to be missed! Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-The trauma of adoption and inconsistent caregivers -Interracial adoption -What if kids didn't want to be adopted? -Taking care of yourself in order to take care of your kids -Primal wounds of adopted children losing their first parents and first culture -Is it neurodivergence or trauma? -Being selfless but still holding space for yourself
Please shower Lorin with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Send me a message on IG or FB and I'll tell you how to sign up! Our next groups start on April 1st! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 76 Mom Roxanne Ferber on What Education Could Be: Connection First, Trauma-Informed, & Nature School
21 Mar 2022
00:52:40
About This Episode: Mom Roxanne is a breath of fresh air. Not only did she and I have a TON of similarities in our stories, but I was taken aback by her casual yet firm commitment to meeting her children's needs. If only she was in charge of education, all of our children would be thriving. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Educators have no neurodivergency training -Connection before correction -All behavior is communication -The need for trauma-informed response training -What is nature school? -Collaboration between parents and teachers
Please shower Roxanne with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Send me a message on IG or FB and I'll tell you how to sign up! Our next groups start on April 1st! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 75 Mom Natasha Croff on Advocating For Our Kids to Get a Fighting Chance in School
14 Mar 2022
01:11:15
About This Episode: Mom Natasha is a force to be reckoned with and I'm so thankful to have had the chance to chat with her. The way she advocates for her child with kindness yet firmness is inspiring. All children deserve the right to succeed. She nails it out of the park. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Fighting for an IEP that supports our kids -Finding doctors who will listen to you -Listen to your intuition -What our kids internalize about themselves from the comments they hear -Stigma against students who are neurodivergent -Being your kid's strongest advocate -The lack of understanding in schools about neurodivergent kids' behaviors -Why we need to remove the phrase, "What did you do?"
Please shower Natasha with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Send me a message on IG or FB and I'll tell you how to sign up! Our next groups start on April 1st! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep.200!! Celebrating 200 Episodes With Megan Through Vulnerability & Validation
13 Nov 2023
00:39:53
About This Episode: I'm celebrating 200 episodes today - join me as I reflect on how sharing stories brings us the crucial validation we need.
** HUGE NEWS!! Our next Mothers Together "Open House" is coming up at the end of the year! At Open House, you'll walk away with actual connections to real moms just like you AND the validation you deserve but often don't receive. I'm thrilled to be able to bring you a taste of how inclusive, safe, and judgment-free the Mothers Together community is. If you are ready to meet other moms like you, please join us for Open House! Here's the link to sign up: mothers-together.com/openhouse. See you there!
I ALWAYS welcome YOUR thoughts! Feel free to DM me on IG (@on.the.hard.days) or email me: megan@mothers-together.com. This podcast is what it is because of YOU.
And speaking of the podcast, YOU all recently got my show to over 230K downloads. Thank you!
The best way to keep this podcast download streak is to: 1) Subscribe to the podcast - your device will automatically download new episodes! 2) Share the show with others - think therapists, pediatricians, and teachers! 3) Leave a rating/review for the show - the Apple algorithm will push the show out to more moms who need the support and validation!
THANK YOU, so very much, for your continued support!
Ep. 74 Mom Charity Howard on Consistently Modeling Positivity, Despite the Hardships in Raising Neurodivergent Kids
07 Mar 2022
00:41:30
About This Episode: Mom Charity SO inspired me with her consistent positive and optimistic thinking, despite a really challenging life in raising four neurodivergent kids. She was honest and vulnerable, yet so moving! Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-What is DMDD? -Trauma of parenting explosive children -Setting tiny goals to get through each day -Showing weakness as a mom to help others learn kindness -The stigma around asking for help -Modeling positive thinking
Please shower Charity with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Send me a message on IG or FB and I'll tell you how to sign up! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 73 Mom Marjorie Ludwig on the Gifted/Autism Overlap and the Difficulties in Meeting Academic Needs
28 Feb 2022
00:55:20
About This Episode: This is one of those episodes where, if you're raising a neurodivergent child, you'll be constantly nodding your head in awe as you listen. It's SO relatable. Mom Marjorie shares the struggles she and her family face with raising their son - especially with regards to being both gifted and Autistic, and how to meet his needs academically. Here are just some of the topics we discussed:
-Lesser known Autism symptoms -Gifted vs. Autism vs. ADHD -The gray area between different types of neurodivergence -Inflexible thinking -Masking in school - even with Autism -Finding the right schooling for your child
Please shower Marjorie with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Send me a message on IG or FB and I'll tell you how to sign up! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!
Ep. 72 Mom Jill Matsumoto on Viewing Giftedness Through the Lens of Neurodivergence
21 Feb 2022
00:51:51
About This Episode: Mom Jill's child reminded me SO much of my own. Yet I love how Jill holds space for him to just be who he is! This conversation was a wonderful reminder to love our kids for who they are, despite the challenges.
Please shower Jill with love and support by SHARING this episode with your mom friends and groups!
MORE: -Want to be a part of my support group community, Mothers Together? Send me a message on IG or FB and I'll tell you how to sign up! -Subscribe to On The Hard Days via Apple, Spotify, or however you get your podcasts. *Please leave a review* to spread the word to other moms around the world!